State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China.
ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou, 311215, China.
Adv Mater. 2021 Jun;33(24):e2008119. doi: 10.1002/adma.202008119. Epub 2021 May 7.
Switchable optical properties are essential for numerous technologies including communication, anticounterfeiting, camouflage, and imaging/sensing. Typically, the switching is enabled by applying external stimulation such as UV light for fluorescence detection. In contrast, ground squirrels utilize spontaneous live infrared emission for fencing off predators as a unique way of communication. Inspired by this, live evolution of both optical and thermal images for temporal communication in which time is the encoded information is demonstrated. This system is based on a digitally light-cured polymeric phase-change material for which the crystallization kinetics can be controlled in a pixelated manner. Consequently, live evolution in optical transparency during the crystallization process enables temporal optical communication. Additionally, by harnessing the dynamic evolution of the thermal enthalpy, multiple sets of time-specific information can be reversibly retrieved as self-evolving infrared thermal images. The versatility of this dual-mode temporal system expands the scope for secured communication, with potential implications for various other areas including optics, thermal regulation, and 3D/4D printing.
可切换光学性质对于包括通信、防伪、伪装和成像/感测在内的众多技术至关重要。通常，通过施加外部刺激（如用于荧光检测的紫外线）来实现切换。相比之下，地松鼠利用自发的红外发射来隔离捕食者，这是一种独特的交流方式。受此启发，展示了用于时间通信的光学和热图像的实时演变，其中时间是编码信息。该系统基于数字化光固化聚合物相变型材料，其结晶动力学可以以像素化的方式进行控制。因此，在结晶过程中光学透明度的实时演变可实现时间光学通信。此外，通过利用热焓的动态演变，可以可逆地获取多组特定时间的信息，作为自我演变的红外热图像。这种双模时间系统的多功能性扩展了安全通信的范围，可能对包括光学、热调节和 3D/4D 打印在内的各个领域都有影响。
